Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Spain’s Costa del Sol, Marbella has long been a magnet for travelers and expatriates alike, particularly drawing a significant number of Brits. To delve into the allure of Marbella for British visitors and residents, we sat down with Isabella Taylor, who has been living in Marbella for a decade and works closely with the British community through her association with the popular website, WhyMarbella.com.
Me: Isabella, thank you for joining us. You’ve been living in Marbella for quite some time. What initially brought you here?
Isabella Taylor: Thank you for having me. It’s quite simple, really. Like many others, I was drawn to the incredible weather and the promise of a lifestyle that seemed almost too good to be true. The warmth of the sun and the people here is something quite special.
Me: You work with WhyMarbella.com. Can you tell us a bit about what you do?
Isabella Taylor: Absolutely. At WhyMarbella.com, our mission is to showcase the best of what Marbella has to offer. From guiding newcomers to find their footing to offering insiders’ tips on the best places to eat, shop, and relax, we aim to be the ultimate resource for anyone looking to visit or move to Marbella.
Me: Marbella seems to have a significant British community. Why do you think Brits are so drawn to this area?
Isabella Taylor: There are several reasons, really. The climate is, of course, a huge draw. The microclimate here offers over 320 days of sunshine a year, making it a perfect escape from the UK’s often dreary weather. But it’s more than just the sun. Marbella offers a blend of luxurious lifestyle and cultural depth that’s hard to find elsewhere. There’s a real sense of community among the expats here, and the Spanish are very welcoming to foreigners.
Me: Besides the weather, what aspects of Marbella do you believe attract people from the UK?
Isabella Taylor: The lifestyle is a big part of it. Marbella is renowned for its beautiful beaches, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. But it also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with its charming Marbella Old Town and numerous galleries and museums. Moreover, the standard of living is high, yet it remains relatively affordable compared to back home in the UK. Plus, the ease of speaking English widely makes the transition smoother for many Brits.
Me: Have you noticed a trend in more Brits moving to Marbella permanently, rather than just vacationing?
Isabella Taylor: Definitely. Many come here initially as tourists but quickly fall in love with the place and decide to make it their home. The quality of life is a major factor—particularly for families and retirees. The healthcare in Marbella is excellent, and there are outstanding international schools for those with children. The real estate market also offers a wide range of options, from beachfront apartments to luxurious villas.
Me: What advice would you give to someone from the UK considering moving to Marbella?
Isabella Taylor: Do your research and visit at different times of the year if possible. While Marbella is wonderful, living here is different from vacationing. Connect with the expat community; they can provide invaluable advice and support.
Me: Isabella, thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us.
Isabella Taylor: It’s been my pleasure. Marbella truly is a slice of paradise, and I feel lucky to call it home. I hope more people come to experience its magic for themselves.
Photo by Simon Hermans on Unsplash
